RALEIGH, N.C. (May 10) - When a boat is "ship-shape" it is ready to be underway.
Boat operators need to be ship-shape as well. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission recommends that recreational vessel operators prepare for safe and enjoyable times on the water through a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators accredited boating course.
"The best way to learn or refresh basic boating skills is through a course led by a qualified instructor," said Capt. Chris Huebner, boating safety coordinator for Wildlife Resources Commission. "Whether it's sailing, personal watercraft, motorboats or a pontoon, taking a boating safety course will sharpen your knowledge and skills."
The Wildlife Resources Commission administers free boating education courses across the state. This basic boating course is a 6- to 8-hour course that includes information about boat operation, legal requirements, handling emergencies and other information. This course is required for 14-16 year olds to operate a personal watercraft in North Carolina. To check availability, go to
www.ncwildlife.org or call (919) 707-0031.
Other agencies also offer
National Association of State Boating Law Administrators approved safe boating courses:
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary boating safety courses, call 1-800-336-BOAT.
U.S. Power Squadron public boating classes, call 1-888-FOR-USPS.